Edibles vs. Smoking: Which is Cheaper, and Which is Better?

In a short amount of time, the cannabis industry has advanced in multiple ways. With the rise in demand, along with the variety of hemp products to choose from, it is no wonder that hemp flower and edibles continue to draw in more consumers.

While prices are relatively steady, enthusiasts still want to know the difference between edibles cost vs. smoking, so that they can find the best bang for their buck.

If you’re looking to enjoy hemp but want to save money, this article will shed light on the market of these products and the importance of selecting premium hemp.

Smoking vs. Edibles

Before we get into edibles vs. smoking cost, let’s go over the similarities and differences of these consumption methods.

Both will incite effects but in a different way.

For example, smoking hemp has been known to offer immediate results during a short duration of time. Just be prepared to have a scented candle or an air freshener ready, because the smoke can leave a noticeable scent behind.

Edibles are hemp-infused food products. They can come in gummies, baked goods, and candies that taste delicious if made correctly. A few more perks of edibles—they can be taken nearly anywhere with you, odorless, compact, and convenient.

Unlike smoking, edibles take a longer time to activate. A good rule of thumb is to start a timer after you consume it, to gauge the onset of effects. Enthusiasts have reported that the effects are more noticeable and long-lasting.

While there can be a gap between the prices of both products, remember that each of them has their advantages and disadvantages. If you’re not trying to draw any attention to yourself, it may be best to stick with edibles—but if you want to taste hemp in its most natural state, smoking may be the ideal route you take.

How Much Does Smoking Cost?

Before the 2018 Farm bill, smoking hemp was not as mainstream as it is today. Still, inhaling hemp happens to be one of the oldest consumption methods that we continue to use. But does it cost more than edibles?

Premium Flower vs. Average Flower

The cost of CBD hemp flower is based on the states and the store that you purchase it from. Some other variables that can affect the overall price of the flower are the location it was grown, shipping costs, taxes, and quality.

You can find a range of prices online. But if it costs less than $25 for 1/8 oz, run in the other direction. Premium hemp flower will ultimately cost more, and the reason behind the price stems from the quality you will receive.

High-quality hemp flower will contain a higher concentration of terpenes, cannabinoids, and other compounds, which will ultimately give you the total experience.

Plus, when you buy premium hemp, you pay the additional cost to ensure that your product has been lab-certified, untainted, and grown right here in the U.S.

And at Hometown Hero, our products go beyond the standards.

A lot of our hemp is grown on farms here in Texas, and all of it is third-party tested and can be shipped right to your door.

Our online store carries a variety of innovative strains. You can find CBD flower, Delta-8 flower, and if you don’t feel like rolling yourself, pre-rolls too! But if you’re buying flower, you may need some accessories.

Don’t Forget About the Tools

Often, beginners forget about the additional cost of tools. With this method, you not only need to purchase flower, but you need instruments too. Some items you may need will include:

• Grinder

• Lighter

• Rolling paper

• Pipe/water pipe

The items above can range anywhere from $5-$250, all of which depends on how much you are willing to pay.

You might be tempted to buy cheaper accessories, but the quality of your tools will be an additional factor in the smoothness and flavor of the smoke. To ensure you experience a premium flower at its best, find pipes that are made with borosilicate glass.

This type of glass is durable and resistant to thermal shock, which means it won’t crack as easily as other materials, allowing you to enjoy your glass pipe for years.

Purchasing glass pipes is not necessary, though. If you are looking for the cheapest tools, we recommend using rolling paper. With that, you will simply need a lighter and of course, a grinder.

Some may argue, but a grinder may be the most important item on the list. Without one, you have to break apart the flower by hand, which will place you in a sticky situation. Pun intended. But don’t worry, this tool shouldn’t cost more than $20.

The Cost of Edibles

The production of Delta-8 edibles is much different than making Delta-8 flower.

Both methods use Delta-8 distillate. For edibles, the distillate is incorporated into traditional cooking methods.

Producing flower is a more extensive process. Not only does the quality of the flower matter, but the Delta-8 has to be added in a very precise way so that it is consistent in cannabinoid content.

For example, if too much Delta-8 is added to flower, the excessive moisture can deter combustion, and not provide for an enjoyable smoking experience. If there’s too little Delta-8 added, the effects of Delta-8 may be hardly noticeable. A right balance achieved with precision is needed for such a product.

With this, you might be wondering—how much do ‘weed’ edibles cost?

Given the factors above, the price of edibles can range from $5-$60 depending on the quality of the product, quantity, and the total amount of THC within them.

You will notice that the higher concentration of THC, the higher the price. Another variable that can affect the cost is the state, taxes, and the company you purchase from.

The prices may seem similar to hemp flower, but as long as you buy from high-quality businesses—your edibles can offer consistent experiences throughout multiple sessions.

For example, our gummies don’t come in a pack of eight like many other brands. We took it one step further and gave our customers ten! Whether you choose to buy Select Spectrum, Delta-8, or our Delta-9 Rosin gummies, you will find ten effective gummies with no “duds” in sight. And if you have any issues with our products, you can always contact our in-house customer support team!

Don’t believe us? Just take a look at our reviews…

How Do Other Hemp Products Compare?

Back in 2019, MJBizDaily shared the results of a data analysis on the price of THC in cannabis-infused products.

The data shows that the average price per milligram of THC in edibles is 20 cents, with THC-infused topicals and tinctures averaging at 32 cents per milligram.

These prices are high, but keep in mind, this is based on marijuana-derived Delta-9.

While there is still a lot more data to uncover between hemp brands, we are aware that according to some sources, hemp-derived Delta-8 can average between 6 to 10 cents per milligram. Talk about a huge difference in price!

But beyond the price per milligram, there are many other variables to consider when discussing the overall cost of a high-quality product. Some important factors to look at are taste, quality control, and most importantly, lab testing for safety.

Are Homemade “Bud” Edibles Cheaper?

Making your own edibles can allow you to turn your favorite recipes into hemp-infused edibles, while potentially keeping money in your pocket. But making edibles correctly takes trial and error.

Depending on the recipe and the amount of flower you use, it may not be viable to make your own. Another downside is homemade edibles are nearly impossible to dose correctly.

Unless you are willing to mess up a batch or two, which in itself can waste some money, it might be best to stick with store-bought edibles.

Takeaway

In terms of ‘weed’ edibles cost, you are getting more for your money. Most edibles come in a pack that can last you multiple sessions. Whereas hemp flower has a higher price (when compared to edibles), and depending on how often you enjoy it, it could be gone in a short time.

But remember, edibles have been known to affect you differently than smoking. So if you enjoy one over the other, you shouldn't compare the two based on price. Instead, choose the product that will meet your needs.